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hello i would appreciate any answers on two questions i have.first i have a 1973 Kennedy half dollar that is about the size of a dime what is this item it appears to be identical to full size half dollar in all markings,and second I have a 1/4 dol cal coin with a Indian on front with 12 stars around him with the year 1876 it also has a small chunk missing from the top edge,the back has a wreath with 1/4 dol cal in the middle
Pete,
The first item is a fantasy piece, sometimes referred to as mini-money or inflationary money -- some private company made miniature replicas of real coins and sold them as novelties. It has no collector value.
The second item is most likely a replica of a California Fractional Gold Piece. While it is possible that it is a real piece, there are many times more replica tokens out there, so the odds are that it's a replica.
Replicas are worth a dollar or two -- real ones go for anywhere from $100 to $1,000 depending on exactly which one it is and what condition it's in. First-hand analysis by an expert is required.
I hope this helps,
Dan
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Answers by Expert:
Dan Moore
Expertise
My strong familiarity with all U.S. Mint coins, extensive reference library, and close relationships with many other dealers allows me to identify just about any coin made in the USA. I receive regular updates to all the current price guides -- both wholesale & retail -- to provide accurate values. So, with a good description or pictures, I should be able to identify and value any U.S. coin you have.
Experience
I've been a coin dealer since the 1980's and a coin collector since the 1960's. I specialize in U.S. Silver Coins and have an active online website -- The Working Man's Rare Coins -- http://www.workingmancoins.com -- offering information and inventory in U.S. coins.
Organizations I belong to :
American Numismatic Association Member #187770
Michigan State Numismatic Society Member #8255
Florida United Numismatics Member #19710
Monroe Coin Club Treasurer
Lincoln Coin Club Board Member
WINS Member #14
CoinMasters Member #1814
Frequently Asked Questions :
I have created a Frequently Asked Questions page on my website, where you may be able to get an immediate answer to your question. You can find the page here :
http://www.workingmancoins.com/FAQ/index.htm
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